2022 Winner: Recognition Of Regional Innovation - Nisku
Winner: Dr. Kimberly D. Kenward; Alex Playdon; Holly Hamilton; Katie Ingvardsen; Trevor Blois; Samiya Fatima; Joel Wenaus. (20/20 Seed Labs Inc.)
Initiative: Molecular Diagnostic Innovation of Commercial Seed and Soil Testing
20/20 Seed Labs Inc. Bridging the gap between research and commercial implementation, the R&D team has a 20 year record of developing, validating, and introducing timely new molecular-based diagnostic test services for use by the Canadian agriculture community. The developed portfolio includes many commercial industry firsts such as Fusarium graminearum, blackleg, virus, and bacterial pathogen testing of seed; clubroot, aphanomyces, and soybean cyst nematode testing of soil; varietal identification, and quarantine weed species differentiation. DNA-based diagnostics have been revolutionary in an industry that has traditionally relied on microbiological culturing and visual recognition. On-going adaptations of technology have led to use of refuge and resistance genetic matching to protect genetic resistance and crop yields.
20/20 Seed Labs Team Submission: Dr. Kimberly D. Kenward; Alex Playdon; Holly Hamilton; Katie Ingvardsen; Trevor Blois; Samiya Fatima; Joel Wenaus.
The team’s work has been recognized in a nomination for the Manning Innovation Award, receipt of an AgInnovation Award, and named as one of Germination Magazine’s Top 10 Innovations of 2022.
